Robert Valela earned a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta in 2023. He also holds certificates in mental health and addictions (2021) and psychology (2020), a Bachelor of Commerce in human resources management with a minor in psychology from Toronto Metropolitan University (2019), a certificate in military intelligence from the Canadian Forces School of Military Intelligence (2019), and an Advanced Diploma in human resources administration from George Brown College (2014).

From 2019 to 2023, Robert worked at the IMPACT Lab at Toronto Metropolitan University, managing research projects, co-authoring publications, participating in training, and coaching couples for the Couple HOPES study, which provided online trauma support for couples, particularly those affected by PTSD in military, police, and emergency services. He also provided virtual support, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention for the Distress Centres of Greater Toronto and Crisis Services Canada (2019-2021).

Additionally, Robert is a Veteran who served as an Intelligence Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves, with experience at Canadian Forces Intelligence Command. In this role, he enhanced research capabilities, integrating his psychological expertise and military perspective to improve the well-being and skills of intelligence professionals.

Robert integrates strategic theories and research findings into practical solutions for real-world challenges, collaborating efficiently with clients and colleagues to enhance care quality and outcomes.